Scandal of car thieves aged 10

More than 1,400 youngsters have been arrested across the region for a string of car-related crimes, including car theft, aggravated vehicle taking, drink-driving and underage driving, over the last two years, figures reveal.

Across Tyne and Wear a 10-year-old, four 11-year-olds, 11 12-year-olds and 33 13-year-olds were arrested for car theft.

Durham police also arrested a 12-year-old and four 13-year-olds for aggravated vehicle taking.

Kath Hartley, of road safety charity Brake, said: “It’s incredibly concerning that young people, many of whom will have had no formal driving tuition, are risking their own lives and others’ lives.”